The Tarot of the Egyptian Masonry of Cagliostro By Alexander Rybalka
Explanations of the symbolism of the tracing boards for the one hundred degrees degrees Artist-Designer: Alexander Naumov Edited for the English language by Luke Bubeck Foreword
In the basis of Freemasonry, as in the basis of all initiatic orders, is the underlying concept of the awakening and subsequent raising of human consciousness. To put it in very simple terms, this means that: the Masons (as well as the Rosicrucians, the Martinists, members of the OTO, etc.) believe that if a person conducts, or takes part in, i n, a special ceremony, or is at least given some very important or significant information, the consciousness of the man can begin to proceed to a higher level. First, the common man, the uninitiated, or Profane, was introduced into the order, and then new information was revealed to him. The student or pupil, after his acceptance and initiation into the Order, then becomes an initiate of that Order. The new initiate can then, with dedicated work and practice, become an Apprentice, then a Companion or Brother, and then, finally, a Master in the Order. Different systems contain different numbers of the degrees of initiation. Basic, or Symbolic Freemasonry, has only three degrees. These are the degrees of Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master. This is the core and principle of Masonic training. Further study of the esoteric, based only on the symbolism of these three degrees, can be completed. However, in Masonry, there are additional high degrees, or, as they are called b y purists of Freemasonry, advanced degrees. Two such Rites that practice higher degrees, are, The York Rite, which tells the story of the construction of the Temples in Jerusalem in more detail (First and Second), and the Scottish Rite. The Scottish Rite holds degrees from the 4 th through the 33 rd, and recounts in extreme detail, the legend of the construction of the Temples, as well as the conquest of the crusaders in the Holy Land. In the Scottish Rite, the basic fundamentals of Kabbalah and alchemy begin to be touched upon. The majority of the so-called so-called “regular” Masonic Obediences (“regular”, meaning recognized by the United Grand Lodge Lodge of England) practice only Symbolic Symbolic and Scottish Rite rd Freemasonry, up to the 33 degree. However, there exists an even higher Masonic staircase, the so-called Egyptian Freemasonry, founded by Cagliostro. In Egyptian Freemasonry, (it’s most common Rites being those of Memphis, Misraim, Memphis-Misraim and Misraim-Memphis) there are many more degrees. The number of degrees ranges from 95 to 100, depending on the specific Rite or Order being practiced.
Rituals and legends of these degrees include and involve not only the Bible and the history of the orders of chivalry, but also all of the main mystical traditions of the world. When climbing up the ladder of degrees of the Rite of Memphis-Misraim (the most common version of Egyptian Freemasonry), the initiate becomes exposed to, and acquainted with, the mysteries of the Scandinavian runes, the secret traditions of the Yazidis, the esoteric rituals rit uals of Hinduism and Buddhism, the mysteries of the ancient Greeks and Romans, and most of all, with the Sacred Traditions of Ancient Egypt, as well as the practices of alchemy, Kabbalah, and astrology, which are fundamental to the Rite, and are practi ced and taught at the highest levels. The creator of Egyptian Freemasonry, and of the Egyptian Rite, was the Count Alexander of Cagliostro (1749-1796), (1749-1796), born in Tunisi. He must not be confused with the mystifier Giuseppe Balsamo (1743-1795), the Palermo recruited by the Jesuits to personify, and to throw disrepute, on the true Count of Cagliostro.
Alexander of Cagliostro was initiated into the secr ets of Egyptian Freemasonry by the mysterious Master Altothas in 1776, the year of the foundation of the Illuminati Order. And yet, few know that the summit of the true Illuminati Order was constituted by six members. Four were known, those those being Weishaupt, von Knigge, Goethe, Goethe, and Herder. Two were secret, those being Franklin and Cagliostro. In effects, a secret connection existed between the Illuminati Order of Weishaupt, and the Egyptian Freemasonry of Cagliostro, that was officially founded in 1785, year of the suppression of the Illuminati Order. Besides that, Napoleon Bonaparte was i nitiated by Cagliostro to Egyptian Freemasonry and into the Masonic Rites of Memphis, of Misraïm, and of Memphis-Misraïm, Memphis-Misraïm, which came down from it. Between 1810 and 1813, in Naples Italy, the three brothers Bédarride , Michel, Marc and Joseph, received the Supreme Powers from the Order of Misraïm, and the y then developed the Rite of Misraïm in France. They made it official in Paris in 1814. The Rite was composed of 90 degrees, taken from Scottish freemasonry, from Martinism, and from other Masonic currents, and the last four degrees received rec eived the name of the “Arcana Arcanorum.” In 1815, in Montauban, France, the Mother Lodge of the Rite of Memphis was constituted, with the Grand Master Samuel Honis as head, followed, in 1816, by Gabriel-Mathieu Marconis. In 1838, Jean Etienne Marconis de Nègre, the son of the last, took over the Rite of Memphis. The Rite, for J. E. Marconis de Nègre, was a continuation of the ancient Mysteries, practiced in Antiquity, in India, and in Egypt. The Constitutions C onstitutions of the Rite said: “… the Masonic rite of Memphis is the continuation of the Mysteries of the Antiquity. The Rite taught the first men to pay homage to Divinity… “. The Rite of Memphis t hen reached the 92nd and 95th degrees. In 1881, the Italian Italian general, Giuseppe Garibaldi, reunified the Rites of Me mphis and Misraïm, and became the Grand Hierophant of both. After the death of Garibaldi, in 1882, the Rites entered a “dark” period, until, in 1890, various lodges of both Rites were federated, and t he Rite of Memphis-Misraïm Memphis-Misraïm reappeared. In 1900, the Italian, Ferdinando Francesco degli Oddi, became Head of Memphis-Misraïm, Memphis-Misraïm, and was succeeded, by the English John Yarker, in 1902. The Rite then reached 97 degrees.
Rituals and legends of these degrees include and involve not only the Bible and the history of the orders of chivalry, but also all of the main mystical traditions of the world. When climbing up the ladder of degrees of the Rite of Memphis-Misraim (the most common version of Egyptian Freemasonry), the initiate becomes exposed to, and acquainted with, the mysteries of the Scandinavian runes, the secret traditions of the Yazidis, the esoteric rituals rit uals of Hinduism and Buddhism, the mysteries of the ancient Greeks and Romans, and most of all, with the Sacred Traditions of Ancient Egypt, as well as the practices of alchemy, Kabbalah, and astrology, which are fundamental to the Rite, and are practi ced and taught at the highest levels. The creator of Egyptian Freemasonry, and of the Egyptian Rite, was the Count Alexander of Cagliostro (1749-1796), (1749-1796), born in Tunisi. He must not be confused with the mystifier Giuseppe Balsamo (1743-1795), the Palermo recruited by the Jesuits to personify, and to throw disrepute, on the true Count of Cagliostro.
Alexander of Cagliostro was initiated into the secr ets of Egyptian Freemasonry by the mysterious Master Altothas in 1776, the year of the foundation of the Illuminati Order. And yet, few know that the summit of the true Illuminati Order was constituted by six members. Four were known, those those being Weishaupt, von Knigge, Goethe, Goethe, and Herder. Two were secret, those being Franklin and Cagliostro. In effects, a secret connection existed between the Illuminati Order of Weishaupt, and the Egyptian Freemasonry of Cagliostro, that was officially founded in 1785, year of the suppression of the Illuminati Order. Besides that, Napoleon Bonaparte was i nitiated by Cagliostro to Egyptian Freemasonry and into the Masonic Rites of Memphis, of Misraïm, and of Memphis-Misraïm, Memphis-Misraïm, which came down from it. Between 1810 and 1813, in Naples Italy, the three brothers Bédarride , Michel, Marc and Joseph, received the Supreme Powers from the Order of Misraïm, and the y then developed the Rite of Misraïm in France. They made it official in Paris in 1814. The Rite was composed of 90 degrees, taken from Scottish freemasonry, from Martinism, and from other Masonic currents, and the last four degrees received rec eived the name of the “Arcana Arcanorum.” In 1815, in Montauban, France, the Mother Lodge of the Rite of Memphis was constituted, with the Grand Master Samuel Honis as head, followed, in 1816, by Gabriel-Mathieu Marconis. In 1838, Jean Etienne Marconis de Nègre, the son of the last, took over the Rite of Memphis. The Rite, for J. E. Marconis de Nègre, was a continuation of the ancient Mysteries, practiced in Antiquity, in India, and in Egypt. The Constitutions C onstitutions of the Rite said: “… the Masonic rite of Memphis is the continuation of the Mysteries of the Antiquity. The Rite taught the first men to pay homage to Divinity… “. The Rite of Memphis t hen reached the 92nd and 95th degrees. In 1881, the Italian Italian general, Giuseppe Garibaldi, reunified the Rites of Me mphis and Misraïm, and became the Grand Hierophant of both. After the death of Garibaldi, in 1882, the Rites entered a “dark” period, until, in 1890, various lodges of both Rites were federated, and t he Rite of Memphis-Misraïm Memphis-Misraïm reappeared. In 1900, the Italian, Ferdinando Francesco degli Oddi, became Head of Memphis-Misraïm, Memphis-Misraïm, and was succeeded, by the English John Yarker, in 1902. The Rite then reached 97 degrees.
In 1902, the German, Theodor Reuss, established the Sovereign Sanctuary of MemphisMisraïm in Germany, and in 1913, after the death of Yarker, he becam e the International Head of the Rite. In 1924, T. Reuss passed to the Eternal East, and the succession was interrupted, except in the O.T.O. (Ordo Templi Orientis), the neotemplar order founded by Reuss in 1905 in Germany. In reality, the O.T.O. had included the Rite of Memphis- Misraïm, although in a reduced version, where its principal degrees were i ncorporated. In 1909, Theodore Reuss delivered a charter to the famous Martinist, Gerard Encauss, known as Papus. The successors of Papus were Charles Detré (Tedé), Jean Bricaud, Constant Chevillon, Charles-Henry Dupont, and Robert Ambelain. In 1939, Jean Bricaud passed to the Eternal East, and was followed by Chevillon. In 1944, Chevillon was murdered b y the French collaborationists of national socialism, and was followed by Dupont. Then, in 1960, Ambelain succeeded Dupont as Head of the Rite. On November 14, 1973, the Italian, Francesco Brunelli (1927-1982), was named by Robert Ambelain to be responsible for the Rite in Italy. On November 22, 1973, Francesco Brunelli, (Nebo), Grand Master of the Ancient and Traditional Martinist Order, as well as that of the Ancient and Primitive Rite of Memphis-Misraïm Memphis- Misraïm,, was received with all honors in the Grand Lodge of Italy, by Palazzo Giustiniani. Each degree of Masonry has the so-called table, t able, or Tracing Board. This image, with the help of methods of visual training, is intended to remind the initiate about the essence of the teachings of the particular degree. To put it very simply, it is a foundation, with its purpose being to remind and instruct the initiate as to the main principles of the rituals, legends, and and teachings, of that degree. All lodges from all over the world, while working in the Symbolic Degrees, set the tracing board behind the Right Honorable Honorable Master, otherwise known as the Worshipful Master, or Venerable Master, the President of the t he Lodge. The tracing board is a large picture, depicting the secrets and lessons of the degrees, either the first, second, or third. Tables of the degrees from the 4 th to the 33rd are very seldom used, and known only to a few of the Scottish Rite Masons. In this set, we have carefully reproduced the ancient and traditional drawings relevant to each degree, although, in my opinion, to be ideal, they would have to be reworked. However, the essence of Freemasonry is to scrupulously follow the Tradition. We can only add to, without changing, that which we have inherited from previous generations. Tracing Boards for the 34 th to the 100th degrees did not exist at all. It is due to this, that I decided to make drawings for all of the degrees of Egyptian Freemasonry, using my knowledge of its traditions and rituals. Of course, this expansive Work would not have been possible without the help of my Brothers from the World Association of Egyptian Obediences (WAEO), a uniting worldwide Masonic order, working under the statutes of Egyptian Freemasonry. First of all, I want to thank Allen Greenfield, the Grand Master of the system of lodges known as The Sons and Daughters of Aaron. I would also like to thank Joel Duez, the Honorary Grand Hierophant of the order of A.P.R.M.M.-Europe, and of FLC, as well as Luis Duarte, the Secretary-General of the Rite of Memphis (Montauban, 1815), and Israel Oren, the Master of the Isra eli Lodge “Kabbalist’s Stone #2”.
Artist Alexander Naumov, helped to bring these tracing boards to life, based on my personal sketches. And now ALL of a HUNDRED DEGREES of Freemasonry have their own tracing boards. Each card of the Tarot of Egyptian Freemasonry, tells, by the visual language of t he profound mystical, esoteric, and philosophical concepts, the lessons which are incorporated in each of the Masonic degrees. Additionally, each card of the Egyptian Masonic Tarot can be divided into the Major and Minor Arcana. The Minor Arcana consists of the degrees from the 1 st to the 33 rd, while the Major Arcana consists of the 34 th to 100th degrees. The Tarot of Egyptian Freemasonry can also be divided according to its suits, in correspondence with the stages of the alchemical processes. Each card of the Egyptian Masonic Tarot, through the visual language of the profound mystical, esoteric, and philosophical concepts contained therein, corres ponds to the Work and the lessons of each of the Egyptian Masonic degrees. Additionally, each card of the Tarot of Egyptian Freemasonry can be divided into higher and lower houses, the Junior, that is degrees from 1 to 33, and the Senior, degrees 34 to 100. The cards of Egyptian Freemasonry can also be divided according to the suits c orresponding with the stages of the Alchemical Processes, as shown below. Degrees from 1 to 3 correspond to the Work in the Brown Degrees 4-33 – Work in the Black Degrees 34-42 – Work in the Green Degrees 43-63 – Work in the White Degrees 64-74 – Work in the Yellow The degrees of 75-95 – Work in the Red The degrees of 96-100 – Work in the Gold
The Tarot of Egyptian Freemasonry can also be used for divination. It is i mportant to remember that even one card contains a huge amount of information, because it refers to a ritual, as well as a legend, and a degree. How do I use them?
I can offer you three choices. Firstly, each card can be used for meditation and study, based on a short description of the essence of each degree, given in this book. Secondly, you can also read a brief description of the full text of the rite of each degree. In such cases, the table will become much clearer to you, and you will get a lot of information that can be used for further meditation and reflect ion from it. You can find the texts of the Rituals in the following books:
Sergey Karpachev. “The Secrets of Masonic Awards” This book deals in extreme detail with the Scottish Rite, and I used it for the compilation of the notes for the tracing boards of those degrees. Allen H. Greenfield. “The Compleat Rite of Memphis” Allen Greenfield’s book describes the extent of t he Egyptian Constitution for the 34th through the 97th degrees. Given that the descriptions of the degrees from 98 to 100 do not exist in publication, I slightly opened the veil of secrecy concerning these. Thirdly, you can yourself join one of the Masonic Orders working in the Egyptian Rite. Then, of course, the table of each degree will open up before you in all of its depth. There is a list of the sites of the different orders of Egyptian Freemasonry available on the website of the World Association of Egyptian Obediences, here – http://waeo.info/content/egyptian-rituals The cards can also be used as an ordinary Tarot deck. More precisely, they are not absolutely ordinary. The Florence Tarot, also referred to as the Minchiate Tarot, unlike the ordinary Tarot, consists of 97 cards. To the Major Arcana are added constellations, elements, etc. (see more details in the book). The Tarot and Minchiate relate to each other as do man and woman. Tarot – the world of women, Minchiate – that of men. If you want to learn in detail about Florentine Minchiate, i ts mysticism and history, I recommend to you this book. Brian Williams “The Minchiate Tarot”. You can use this deck for divination by Minchiate, leaving out the last 3 cards. Degrees 98, 99, and 100, represent the 3 Mother Letters of the Hebrew Alphabet, which are shown in the “Sefer Yetzirah”, also called “The Book of Creation”, attributed to the Kabbalists of antiquity (almost that of Abraham). The lette r Shin is attributed to the 98 th degree, Mem to the 99 th degree, and Aleph to the 100 th degree. These cards are not intended for beginners. They are for those who have seriously decided for themselves that they are in search of the hidden secrets of this Path. It is my sincere hope that this book will help you in that search, or at least set you out on the beginning of the Path, mentally, leading to the highest steps of the Masonic Ladder of Egyptian Freemasonry.
The Descriptions of the Cards and Their Correspondences The Minor Arcana – Degrees 1 – 33 1st degree – Entered Apprentice
On the black-and-white floor there are three columns, symbolizing Power, Wisdom, and Beauty. The black-and-white “chess floor”, according to tradition, was in the Jerusalem Temple. It is a symbol of the dualism of the world (black and white), as well as of Ein Sof (Infinity). On the mosaic floor are the tools of the masons, personifying Freemasonry itself. At the top of the card are the Sun and the Moon, personifying Chesed (Mercy) and Geburah
(the Severity of the Lord). In the center of the card is the Ladder of Jacob, upon which the angels descend and ascend. This Ladder represents and embodies a gradual recovery and progression as a result of the initiation. A staircase leads to the Flaming or Burning Star, most often called the Bla zing Star, one of the main symbols of Freemasonry. According to some opinions, the Blazing Star symbolizes the Divine in man. Thus, as a result of progress on the steps of initiation, man is coming back to its Divine origin. According to other opinions, the Blazing Star symbolizes Sirius, which plays an important role in the religious beliefs of the ancient Egyptians. Value of the card – The beginning of a new cycle. The transition to a new level. Initiation. The opening of the Light. The beginning of a new path. The card of the first degree corresponds to the Fool, the first of the Major Arcana in the Classic Tarot. Fool, or a Fool. Spontaneity, innocence, freedom.
2nd degree – Fellow Craft
The central element of this table, is a spiral staircase, which led the apprentice bricklayer to the inside of the Temple. It is worth noting that the camber of the ladder represents how difficult the Path of the Light truly is, as well as the fact that it is the degree of the Journeyman, being the transition from Apprentice or Neophyte to Master. In front of the Temple on the table, a river flows, which is more of a symbolic river, rather than a literal natural one. The river reminds us of the crossing, and also of the Hebrew word for “ear of corn”, a word which is of great importance to this degree. The ancient Jews used this word not only for corn, however, but also for shallow rivers with rapids. The word corn, which appears to this extent, also reminds us of the goddess Isis, holding the ears of corn in Her hand, and
that the masons are the Children of the Widow, for Isis has lost her husband Osiris. To this extent, Freemasons learn the value of the letter G, and of its connection with the spiral staircase. Value of the card – A sharp turn from Darkness to Light, and preparation for t he transition to a new level. In the Classic Tarot, the card of the second degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of the Magician. In Minchiate, this is a man who plays with two children in the bone. The wisdom, the mind, awareness of the new.
3rd degree – Master Mason
At the third degree, the Mason learns the art of the “right to die”, as well as to be reborn anew. The Central element of the card is a coffin, in which lies the body of the Master Hiram, who was slain by three rebel Apprentices. At the bottom of the card, leaning against the foot of the coffin, we see the Masonic instruments of labor, which in this degree, have become the tools of murder. The coffin was buried deep in the earth, and over at had grown a single sprig of Acacia, symbolizing eternal life and the inevitable return t o a new life after death. On the coffin, in the Masonic Cipher, is written, “Hiram”, along with the approximate year of death – 1000 B.C., the approximate time of the construction of the First Temple. The table of the 3 rd degree
reminds us of the alchemical process of the Nigredo, and about the fact that a new life always occurs after the death of the old, and upon its ruins. It points out that, in order to obtain Eternal Life, one must first “die”. Egyptian Freemasonry, to this extent, remembers about Osiris, as the symbol of the eternal dying and forever awaking nature of Creation. Value of the card – Symbolic death, the struggle with one’s f ears, and the victory over them, the search for the Lost Word. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card of the third degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of the Grand Duke, showing a young man in Royal apparel, sat upon the throne. In the right hand he holds a scepter, and in the left, an Orb. Ambitions, authority, androgyny.
4th degree – Secret Master
On the table, we see the Temple, symbolized by the “chess” floor. At the top of the card, we see the Eternal Light, the eye of Horus. The Candelabrum, or menorah, reminds us of the fact that the Secret Master is one of the seven elected Masters of King Solomon. The key opens the Holy of Holies, recalling to the brother that he is in the “degree of improvement” (Scottish Articles of Association). According to the conception, in the 4 th degree, the Scottish Association should add something that was not possible to mention in the first three degrees of Symbolic Masonry. The Pyramid in the center aims to link the Scottish Association with the Egyptian Egregore and symbolizes Harpokrates, the Egyptian god of Silence, or the Grief of a child. The relationship of the sign of the 4 th degree with Harpokrates is quite obvious to
anyone dedicated to esoteric philosophy, and reminds us not only of the importance of keeping secrets, but also, that at this stage, the new life is born. The two Tablets of the Covenant with the 10 Commandments remind us that they were given to the Freemason during the ceremony of initiation. Also shown on the card are tears, shed for the slain Master, Hiram. Value of the card – Opportunity for unlimited self-improvement, opportunity for personal and career growth. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card of the fourth degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of the Emperor of the East. This card reminds me of the emperors of Byzantium, as well as the fact that the Master of the Lodge, the position of which is often considered as a separate, fourth level of Symbolic Masonry, sits in the East. He is depicted as a beardless youth in Royal robes, holding in the right hand a scepter, and in the left, an Orb upon which sits a bird. In newer versions, on the contrary, these are sometimes reversed. Power, authority, especially of a formal and traditional type.
5th degree – Perfect Master
On the table, as in the preceding degree, we see the Temple, symbolized by the “chess” floor. At the top of the card is depicted the Golden urn containing the ashes of the Master Hiram, crowned with a picture of a naked sword, meaning that such a terrible act cries out for revenge. In the center of the card, we see the cube, the corner-stone on which was engraved the letter J, reminiscent of Jachin, the right-hand column at the entrance to the Sanctuary of the Temple in Jerusalem. This Column symbolizes the Grace of the Lord. The three circles surrounding the cornerstone hint at the square of the circle, and in a broader sense, to mathematics and geometry, as the most important part of t he science of the Free Masons.
Value of the card – Unity and brotherly love in spite of the difficulties (the death of Hiram). In the Minchiate Tarot, the card of the fifth degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of the Emperor of the West. He is depicted as a bearded man sitting on a throne, and represents the Roman Emperor. In the right hand he holds the Orb, and in the left, the scepter. Power, commanding properties, the man who “made himself”.
6th degree – Intimate Secretary
On the table, we see the Temple, symbolized by the “chess” floor. The crown of the king at the top of the card reminds us of the glory of King Solomon and Hiram, King of Tyre. It is also representative of the secret agreement that existed between them. The nine-pointed star indicates the number 9, Holy in Masonry, and is also reminiscent of the nine Templars who founded the order. The roll is a reminder of the mysteri es of the order, which must be strictly kept. The two naked swords tell us that curiosity can sometimes have deadly costs. Value of the card – The desire to know the Truth. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card of the sixth degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of Love. Before the woman is kneeling a Prince upon his right knee. Above them is a cherub who shoots a bow at them, reminiscent of Cupid. Mutual aspiration, love, affection, friendship.
7th degree – Provost and Judge
On the table, we see the Temple, symbolized by the “chess” floor. This card illustrates one of the most important Masonic virtues, that of Equality, and of the famous Triad: Liberty, Equality, Fraternity. The scales symbolize Equality. The Blue and Golden key is a s ymbol of the opening of the repository, which stores the plan of the construction of the Temple. The heart of Hiram is a symbol of man’s desire to discover the Inner essence of things, the secret Knowledge. Value of the card – You are on the right track, gaining access to the Hidden, but only if you strive for justice.
In the Minchiate Tarot, the card of the seventh degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of Temperance. The card depicts a woman in rich robes, pouring iridescent water from one vessel into another. Mental balance, moderation, equilibrium.
8th degree – Intendant of the Building
On the table, we see the Temple, symbolized by the “chess” floor. Some of the symbols of the school passed to him from a previous degree. We see a nine-pointed star associated with the column Jachin as the pivot of the scales, which s ymbolize equality, as well as the menorah.
The menorah is a symbol of the Masonic Light. This table depicts the decoration of the secret room, in which five intendants, the builders of buildings designated by Solomon, improved themselves in the art of construction. Value of the card – The need for mastering new Knowledge for career growth, but do not forget to use it! In the Minchiate Tarot, the card of the eighth degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of Force. It depicts a woman in the Imperial crown, holding in her hands a broken column with a lion at her feet. Force, including moral force, power, d ynamism.
9th degree – Master Elect of Nine
On the table, we see the Temple, symbolized by the “chess” floor. In the center of the card, we see a hand that holds a bloody sword, and the tears of blood around it re mind us of the nine Masters, who went, on the order of King Solomon, to find and bring to Jerusalem the murderers of the Master Hiram. The table is decorated in dark colors, like a dark room, reminiscent of the antechamber in which the candidates are in waiting for the beginning of the ritual. The hand with the sword also tells us about the indispensable retribution of evil and of the need to put Truth above prejudices.
Value of the card – The table points out the fact that we are often as if in a dream and don’t know what danger may lurk for us. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card of the ninth degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of Justice. The woman symbolizing this quality, holds in her right hand the scales, and in her left, the sword. Balance, equality, integration, and, of course, justice.
10th degree – Master Elect of Fifteen
On the table, we see the Temple, symbolized by the “chess” floor. The red tears of mourning for the Master Hiram from the previous card have been replaced by tears of red and white/gold. They are tears of joy. The card shows us the walls of Jerusalem, over which, on a post, is shown a head, representing the murderers of Hiram. At the top of the card, above the wall, is the Sacred Flaming Delta with the unspeakable Name of God, the Tetragrammaton, engraved upon it. The meaning or lesson of the card and of the degree is that punishment for the committed crime may be imposed only under the procedure of the proper court and implemented by legitimate authority. Value of the card – The satisfaction of retribution. In a broader sense, the law of karma. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card of the tenth degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of the Wheel of Fortune. The figure resembles a standard card in the Classic Tarot, but in Minchiate at the top of the wheel, there is a man with a donkey’s head, one hand holding the Orb, and the other, a scepter. Destiny, fate, luck, the fickleness of chance.
11th degree – Sublime Prince Elect
On the table, we see the Temple, symbolized by the “chess” floor. It is said that the Knight, or Prince, will have to run one of the Tribes of Israel, a large subdivision of something much bigger. In the center of the card, there are nine bloody tears surrounding the sword, with a Golden hilt, and a silver blade. This suggests that the punishment of the murderers of Hiram is finished, and it is time to move on once again to constructive work. This great sword, shown in the picture, is called the Sword of Justice. Value of the card – The transition from the work of destruction of the Work of creation, establishment of justice.
In the Minchiate Tarot the card of the eleventh degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of the Chariot. In a carriage, drawn by two horses, is depicted a naked woman. On the back of the left horse sit drivers. Victory, triumph, the feast.
12th degree – Grand Master Architect
On the table, we see the Temple, symbolized by the “chess” floor. In the center of the card, we see the five pillars of the five Orders of Architecture, Ionic, Doric, Corinthian, Tuscan, and Composite. The ability to understand the styles of architecture and their occult meaning is
an integral part of the knowledge of all of the Masons. Also on the table we see the Masonic construction tools, which must be able to used by each Master, a pair of Compasses, a Square, and a Plumb, along with a hint of a secret word, which in translation, means “the Lord”. Value of the card – Reaching the top of the career ladder, in the broader sense, on the material plane. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card of the twelfth degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of Time, reminding us of the unavoidable cycles that time brings with it. In the older Arcanas of Tarot, this card depicts a figure of Saturn, however, in the classical Minchiate Tarot, is depicted an bearded old man waking on crutches or a cane, with a deer on his left and the hourglass to the left of his head. Over time, longevity, great age.
13th degree – Knight Of The Royal Arch, or Royal Arch
On the table, we see the Temple, symbolized by the “chess” floor. This is one of the most important of degrees of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, and teaches us about the connection between the doctrines of Judaism and the oldest prehistoric tradition. According to the legend, Hanoch, Enoch in the Slavic tradition, who lived in the sixth generation from Adam, dug nine dungeons, in which he hid the mysteries of the world. In the depths of the dungeons was a plate of pure gold, on which was engraved the unpronounceable name of God. The task of the candidate, in the course of a fairly long ceremony of initiation, includes a tour of all of the nine halls of the underground Palace. Each of the dungeons corresponds to one of the Sephiroth (Divine qualities), described in Kabbalah.
Kether – The Crown Of The Desire Of God, Chokma – The Wisdom Of God Binah – The Understanding Of God Chesed – Divine Mercy Gevurah – The Severity Of The Divine Tiphareth – Divine Beauty (the personification of the balance between Grac e and Harshness) Netzach – Victory, The Eternity Of God Hod – The Honor or Glory of God Yesod – Foundation. The Temple itself, in which all this is happening, symbolizes the Sephira of Malkuth – the Kingdom of God. Value of the card – The transition from the material to the spiritual level, the willingness to pursue and undergo higher initiations. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for the thirteenth degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of the Hanged Man. It is important to note that, in contrast to normal, Classic Tarot, where his arms are crossed behind his back, The Hanged Man in Minchiate has his hands hanging freely, and in them he keeps the bags of gold coins. Betra yal, complexity, suspension of works.
14th degree – Knight of the Sacred Vault, or Grand elect Perfect and Sublime Master
On the table, we see the Temple, symbolized by the “chess” floor. The Lodge at this level is an underground vault decorated with red, with a lot of candles. The secret word of the Master was carved in gold letters by King Solomon, in the place that he had built a s the crypt of the Temple. The coffin in the center of the card recalls the “leniency of the spirit in the tomb of the human forces”. A ring in the floor opens a secret hatch or door in the floor. The trowel tells us that only the dedicated Mason will be able to see that which is hidden there. The Sacred Word, the unpronounceable Name, the Tet ragrammaton, YHVH (Yod-Hey-Vav-Hey), shines in the Golden triangle over the whole card.
Value of the card – after the Great Works, you will learn the lost Wisdom. In the Classic Tarot, the card for the fourteenth degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of the Hierophant, which is not included in the Minchiate Tarot. The man in cleri cal dress, wearing a triple crown, sits on his throne. His right hand is raised in a gesture of blessing. Red roses and white lilies can be seen in the bottom corners of the card. Support through faith in Providence, Knowledge of the essence of things.
15th degree – Knight of the East, or Knight of the Sword
On the table, we see the Temple, symbolized by the “chess” floor. The legend of this degree tells the story of how after 70 years of Babylonian captivity, King Cyrus allowed the Jews to return to Jerusalem, and to rebuild the Temple. Because the Jews were surrounded by enemies, they had to work with one hand holding a sword, and the other a building trowel. In the modern version of the tracing board is a picture of two crossed swords. It can be safel y assumed that the old tables were depicted with a crossed sword and trowel instead, however, such figures have not been preserved. In the course of the ri tual, it is said that during the construction of the Temple there was a special “mystical” cement used, consisting of flour, milk, oil, and wine. By this it is meant that the Great Architect of the Universe, in order to create the first man, used Kindness, Wisdom, Strength and Beauty. Value of the card – Hard work. Your enemies are trying to stop you. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for the fifteenth degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of Death. In this case, it refers to a symbolic and initiatic death, which inevitabl y precedes the transition to a higher spiritual plane.
16th degree – Prince Of Jerusalem
On the table, we see the Temple, symbolized by the “chess” floor. The legend of this degree tells the story about the Jews return to Jerusalem from Babylonian captivity, and began to recover their Temple. After their brush with the Samaritans, the Jews sought the assistance of the Assyrian king Darius. Darius listened to Zrubavel, the leader of the Jews, and commanded the Samaritans to submit, and not to erect any more obstacles to the restoration of the Temple. According to the tradition of the Samaritans (a Semitic tribe of Cutees, confesses Judaism), the Temple was not to be at Jerusalem on the mount of Moria, but in Samaria on mount Gerizim. On the 20-th day of the Jewish month of Tevet, Jewish princes, who together with Zrubavel,
went to Darius, and returned to Jerusalem. On the 23rd day of the J ewish month of Adar, the Jews began to rebuild the Temple. The table shows the scales of balance – the symbol of Justice and Fairness. Value of the card – Winning in court. Inn the Minchiate Tarot, the card for the sixteenth degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of the Devil. The figure depicts a winged devil walking on the earth, with a Trident in his hands. He wears a belt of snakes. Sexuality, impulsiveness, appetite, cruelty
More profound meaning: Seth as the initiator, who is beyond good and evil.
17th degree – Knight of the East and West
On the table, we see the Temple, symbolized by the “chess” floor. The legend of this degree tells the story of how after the capture of Jerusalem by the Romans, the keepers of t he Tradition first created the cult of the Great Architect of the Universe, and went into Exile in the wilderness. These brothers were called the Knights of the East. After some time they met brothers who had come to the Holy Land by the crusaders, who they called the Knights of the West, and they passed to them their secrets and Tradition. From this Union, modern Freemasonry was born. The card shows the symbol of degree, a white lamb in a heptagon, lying on a book sealed with seven seals. In each corner of the heptagon there are letters, which
begin the Hebrew words, Beauty, Divine, Wisdom, Power, Honor, and Glory, and Power. They are both the titles of the Sephiroth, and the names of t he knightly Virtues. Value of the card – You will find like-minded people, good partners, and friends. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for the seventeenth degree corresponds to the Major Arcane of the Tower. In the figure is a naked woman who is t rying to get out of the burning tower. We are reminded of the tower of Babel, the woman, the soul, which tries for her escape. The Demon Beelzebub (The Baal-Zebuv, The Lord Of The Flies). A vague situation, difficulties, failures.
18th degree – The Knight of the Rose Croix
On the table, we see the Temple, symbolized by the “chess” floor. This degree was borrowed by Masons from the order of the Rosicrucians, and they carry on their Tradition, which comes directly from Ancient Egypt. On the card we see a Golden cross (in Ancient Egypt, the ankh), symbolizing the human body. In the center of the cross is the red Rose (in Ancient Egypt – the blue Lotus), symbolizing the Soul. The pelican, a symbol of Jesus, as well as of selfless love, feeds the Chicks with its own blood. The chicks are sometimes three, sometimes four, and sometimes even seven). It is a symbol of divine Grace, coming from the Sephira of Kether of the lower Sephiroth. Under the pelican with its young ones is written in code, INRI. It means “Jesus of
Nazareth, King of the Jews”, and also Iamim (seas, i.e. water), Nur (fire), Ruach (wind, i.e., air), Iabasha» (land, i.e. earth) , the 4 al chemical elements, working in the initiation. Another meaning of the abbreviation is Igna Natura Renovatur Integra, which means, “Through fire, Nature is perfectly renewed. There are an additional two Latin alchemical phrases that are attributed to INRI, and these are discussed in an earlier degree. The green foliage on the cross stands for eternal life. Value of the card – Renewal through the symbolic death, for the fall will be followed by a new, even higher rise. In the Minchiate Tarot the card of the ei ghteenth degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of Hope. In this card is depicted a kneeling woman pra ying, with a crown hovering in the air in front of her. Unexpected help, a fallen spirit.
19th degree – Knight Grand Pontiff of Jerusalem, (Pontifex Maximus)
On the table, we see the Temple, symbolized by the “chess” floor. The legend of the degree is based on the apocalyptic stories about the heavenly Jerusalem, made of precious stones. In the city wall of the castle there are 12 gates, each gate represents one of the 12 tribes of Israel. In the course of legend, it is taught that John the Evangelist was a Mason, and founded a Lodge of Improvements (degrees 4-14). Naturally, this has to be understood in an allegorical sense. The Pontifex Maximus of Jerusalem is one who is looking for a border point between the visible and the invisible, the known and the unknown. He must be the source of the Light, and he replaces all former Masonic Lights. On the tracing board of this degree we se e a sign of the degree, two gold tables with the Greek letters Alpha and Omega, or the Hebrew Letters,
Aleph and Tau. In the Apocalypse, these letters s ymbolize Jesus, covering all of the world’s phenomena – from alpha (the first letter of the Greek alphabet) to omega (the last letter), or from A to Z. In this case, the Knight of the Pontifex Maximus of Jerusalem personifies Jesus. Value of the card – You will have the possibility to efficientl y use your abilities. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card of the nineteenth degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of Prudence, sometimes called Discretion. On older cards, there is depicted a richly-dressed woman, with a mirror in the right hand (the mirror of wisdom), sitting on a throne. The courage, but not angry, the prudent courage.
20th degree – Knight Of The Temple
On the table, we see the Temple, symbolized by the “chess” floor. This degree is also ca lled the Great master of all regular lodges, or “Master ad vitam”. The ritual tells us about how Cyrus, the Persian King, sent Zrubavel to build the Temple of Jerusalem. The legend of the degree tells the story of how after the destruction of the Second Temple, the Masons are Christians gathered to build the Third, and, to this end, they went throughout all the land, to ensure the universality of the buildings. Most of them settled in Scotland, where, in the small town of Kilwinning, was founded the first lodge of Speculative Freemasonry. The ethical significance of the degree is that all citizens, without exception, have human rights that must be guaranteed. In allegorical form, they participated in the construction of the “inner” Temple.
The card shows the symbol of degree – triangle, in which is written many letters. These are the first letters of the Hebrew words and names, referred to in the course of ritual. In the center of the Triangle, is the Tetragrammaton, recorded in Paleo-Hebrew font. It is important to know that at the time of construction of the Second Temple, the Jews did not use the modern Hebrew alphabet. They used what is called the Assyrian alphabet, along with PaleoHebrew, which is similar to Phoenician. Value of the card – You need to gather as much information as possible for further synthesis to occur. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card of the twentieth degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of Faith. On older versions of this card, is depicted a young woman with a halo around her head, holding in her left hand a quill. In more modern versions, the woman has in her ri ght hand a staff, similar to that of the Bishops. Faith, the religious doctrine, formal religion.
21st degree – Patriarch Noachite, or Knight of Prussia
On the table, we see the Temple, symbolized by the “chess” floor. This degree does not deal with the construction of the Temple, as the majority of the M asonic degrees of the Scottish Rite do, but rather it is about the construction of the tower of Babel. According to the legend of the degree, in 1553, in the mines of Prussia, was discovered the ruins of triangular buildings. So the main element of the table consists of a triangle. The tomb of the Chief architect of the tower of Babel was discovered there. The essence of a degree is the idea of a universal religion, approved by all people. The upside down arrow in the triangle reminds us of the builders, who came to the tower of Babel. The triangle itself speaks about of the three sons of Noah, from which descended all of humanity.
Value of the card – You have to ask for help regarding your past. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card of the twent y-first degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of Charity. The card showed a woman holding a flame in the right hand. This card speaks about Spiritual Love.
22nd degree – Knight Of The Royal Axe, Prince Of The Lebanese
On the table, we see the Temple, symbolized by the “chess” floor. The first Temple, built by king Solomon, was not made mostly of stone, but rather of cedar wood. The cedars came from Lebanon, and the axe shown in the center of the card reminds us of this fact. In a very short ritual, the Neophyte is told about the importance of labor and crafts, as well as of the fact that he should dedicate his inner life of the Temple of the Great Architect of the Universe. In Judaism, as well as in Masonry, the symbolism of Lebanon in regards to the Temple, reminds us about the Spiritual Temple. Value of the card – You will have to do hard work. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card of the twenty-second degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of Fire. On the card is depicted the burning lamb. It reminds us also, of Isaac, whom Abraham wanted to offer a sacrifice, and also of Jesus. Sacrifice, the transformation.
23rd degree – Knight Of The Tabernacle
On the table, we see the Temple, symbolized by the “chess” floor. One of the most revered personalities of Masonry, Bezalel, the Master who created the vessels and took part in the construction of the Mishkan, or the Tabernacle, the portable Temple-tent, which was used by the Jews during their wandering in the wilderness. The table shows the hand of Bezalel at the tabernacle, where the collected donations went to the Temple. The ritual of this degree represents a dedication to the sons of Aaron, the hi gh priest for priestly work. Value of the card – Spiritual purification.
In the Minchiate Tarot, the card of the twenty-third degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of Water, depicted by the sailing ship. Depth, emotion, fluidity.
24th degree – Prince Of The Tabernacle
On the table, we see the Temple, symbolized by the “chess” floor. This degree continues the story about the construction of the portable Temple, which was used by the J ews in the desert, called the Mishkan, or the Tabernacle, in the English tr adition. It is worth mentioning that the word Mishkan, and the word Tabernacle, come from the word Shechinah, the Divine
presence. To this extent the initiate ceases to be a Minister of Hiram, and becomes an independent architect. The moral lesson of this degree lies in the fact that true faith in the Great Architect of the Universe should link all of the people together in a Worldwide brotherhood. On the table we see the stylized letter “L”, stating that the initiate is a Levite, a member of the tribe of Levi, chosen by God to serve in the Temple. All Masons are a kind of Kohanim and are Levites of the Great Architect of the Universe. Value of the card – Selfless service to the Common Cause, which one day bears fruit. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card of the twenty-fourth degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of Earth. On the card, there is a tree growing on a hill, and at the top of the hill, a castle. This refers not only to the element of Earth, but also to the goddess of the Earth, Demeter. The source of wealth, including financial, as well as the philosophical and scientific activity.
25th degree – Knight Of The Brazen Serpent
On the table, we see the Temple, symbolized by the “chess” floor. The legend of the degr ee tells about the journey of the Exodus, when the Jews came out of Egypt and lived in the wilderness. On their way, the Jews were attacked by the fiery serpent, and Moses, by the commandment of God, made the serpent brass and flexible, and raised him up a pole. Stung by snakes, people looked at the serpent, and were healed. The inscription on the lintel of the T-shaped cross, on which hung a serpent is Nechushtan, the so-called snake (from the word Nechoshet, which means “copper” on Hebrew language. The duty of the Knight of the Brazen Serpent is the purification of one’s own soul from the mud of the mate rial world, and the restoration of the true faith. This degree teaches that in the life of every human person, and in
the history of every nation, there ar e “desert” periods, accompanied by the decline of morals and loss of Faith. This degree calls for us to keep Faith with ourselves, to each other, and to God. Value of the card – Encouragement on the way, we should not lose hope, the way out of a difficult situation will be found. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for the twenty-fifth degree is the last of the Major Arcana of the Elements, Air. Depicted is a painted dog, the sky is full of soaring birds, flying clouds, and the Sun is shining brightly. Liberation, freedom, the breath of life, san guine type.
26th degree – Knight Of The Holy City
On the table, we see the Temple, symbolized by the “chess” floor. This degree is also the name of the “Knight of Mercy”. The triangle corresponds to the triple Alliance forged between the Almighty and the patriarchs: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This degree corresponds to the mysteries of the first Christians, and tells how during the reign of the Roman Emperor Domitian, the Christian Masons assembled in the catacombs, in those hours, late at night, when they were endanger of prosecution. The degree shows that Freemasonry does not belong to any particular age, not any one religion, but to all the people, for it is everywhere we find its Truth.
The letters on the edges of the triangle tell us about the three Masonic virtues, Freedom, Equality and Brotherhood. Value of the card – Friendship, unity, freedom from danger with the help of friends. In the Minchiate Tarot the card for the twenty-sixth degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of Libra. On the lintel of weights, playing, at the bottom of the scale, is a porcupine. Equality, balance, Divine justice.
27th degree – Grand Commander Of The Temple
On the table, we see the Temple, symbolized by the “chess” floor. It is a Christian degree, reminding us about the secret rituals of the Teutonic order. The flaming star, or Pentagram, the star of Solomon, is shown in the center of the c ard. It is a planet or star, under which the Messiah was born. Value of the card – Liberation from the yoke; now it works for you. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for the twenty-seventh degree corresponds to the Major Arcana, the Virgin. Shown on the card is a young woman between two cypress trees with a
palm branch in her hand. This is Erigona, the daughter of Icarus. It is also the Astreya and Isis. Punctuality, intelligence, open mind.
28th degree – Knight of the Sun, or Prince Adept
On the table, we see the Temple, symbolized by the “chess” floor. This is one of the most important degrees of the Scottish Rite, in which the Neophyte receive the basics of Kabbalah. They are taught the knowledge of seven metals, seven planets, and their angels and rulers. The cross on the table depicts Jesus, who preferred death to life in the last degree of
perfection. The two-headed eagle on the red square represents the Holy Spirit, or the universal mind, giving life to all that exists. He is present in any body (sages of Zen say that e very person has a Buddha-nature). Value of the card – Get the True Knowledge by the rejection of misconceptions. In the Minchiate Tarot the card for the twenty-eighth degree corresponds to the Major Arcane , the Scorpion. This is Scorpio, or the Egyptian goddess of Serquet. Sensitivity, secrets, deep meditation.
29th degree – Knight of St. Andrew
On the table, we see the Temple, symbolized by the “chess” floor. In this degree, it is explained how the operative masons, constructors of the Christian churches, together with the knights-crusaders were expelled from the Middle East, and settled in England, bringing there the mystical and occult knowledge they had acquired. In Scotland, as is the cross of St. Andrew, the patron Saint of Scotland, and Thistle, a symbol of the country, they established the prototype of modern Freemasonry. Value of the card – A long journey, which will bring good fruits.
In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for the twenty-ninth degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of Aries, showing a lamb standing on its hind legs, holding a Royal staff. At his feet is a small dog. This symbolizes the beginning, the movement forward.
30th degree – Grand Elect Knight Kadosh
On the table, we see the Temple, symbolized by the “chess” floor. The word Kadosh, in Hebrew, means “Saint”. The truly Holy, in the sense of being separated from the material, profane world. This is the last degree of the Areopagus. Also, this degree is called the Knight
of the black and white eagle, with their unity shown at the center of the tracing board. The ritual tells about the death of the Knights Templar, or, more precisely, about the death of the custodians of Knowledge, killed by the evil passions and prejudices of society. But how are good and evil not in the same mind? Value of the card – You need to work on correcting your own shortcomings. This is revenge for the murder of the Knights Templar. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for the thirtieth degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of Capricorn. He is portrayed as a goat with a fish tail. Ambitions, practicality, serious, and at the same time, hard headed, stubborn. It is interest ing to note that at the entrance of the Milan Cathedral, on the inside, you can see a picture of Capricorn.
31 st degree – Grand Inspector Inquisitor Commander
On the table, we see the Temple, symbolized by the “chess” floor. The 31 st degree is purely administrative. The Table depicts the Teutonic Cross, which is the emblem of the degree. In Scottish Freemasonry, it is often silver, and in the system of Egyptian Freemasonry, it is gold. The Teutonic, or Iron, Cross, was the most simple of European awards, iron, edged in sil ver. It symbolizes the Great Duties of the Inspector, the importance of being aware, to ensure that each brother has the proper duties imposed on him in the corresponding degrees, and to not allow violations of the laws of Freemasonry. Also to work to prevent abuses and violations of Masonic law.
Value of the card – Selfless service. Assistance to those who walk in the Way. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for the thirty-first degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of Pisces. On the card id depicted the two fishes, and the stream of water. They represent Venus and Cupid.
32nd degree – Sublime Prince Of The Royal Secret
On the table, we see the Temple, symbolized by the “chess” floor. In this table is repres ented by Roman Numerals, the number 32. And although it does not very well reflect the essence of the degree, we decided to keep it. The essence of the ritual consists in combining the information obtained from the key degrees of the Scottish rite (of those mentioned earlier), as well as about the meaning of the numbers 3, 5, 7, and 9. The sign of the degree is the figure of the camps of the 12 tribes of Israel, located around the Tabernacle, the portable Temple, which was used by the Jews in the wilderness. Value of the card – A synthesis of the available information will allow you to move to a new level. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for the thirty-second degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of Cancer. On the card is depicted the crab. This spiritual essence was known to the ancient Egyptians through the scarab (!). In more ancient cards of the Minchiate, the crab is turned to the right, and there is the Scarab, rolling the Sun to the West. Sensitivity, mystery and intuition.
33rd degree – Sovereign Grand Inspector General
On the table, we see the Temple, symbolized by the “chess” floor. Upon obtaining this degree, the Mason has completed the staircase of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry. On the table, we see a two-headed eagle, and written in Latin, the motto “Order from Chaos”. The double headed eagle is an ancient symbol also known from the Sumerians and the Hittites. One head of the eagle looks to the East, the other to the West. The Sun rises in the East, it is a symbol of the Sephira of Kether, the Will of God. In the West the sun goes down ,it is a symbol of the Sephira of Malkuth, the Kingdom of God (our material world). The task of the Mason is to do, here in our physical manifested world, the desire of God. To do this, the eagle holds in his
claws a golden sword, to show that the Mason could win the most difficult battle, the battle with yourself. Value of the card – An unexpected but well-deserved reward. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card of the thirty-third degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of Pisces, on which is depicted two fish, one with its head up, the other, with its head down. The symbolism is the same as that of the double-headed eagle. Sensitivity, emotion; the intellect, intuition.
The Major Arcana – Degrees 34 – 100 34th degree – Knight of Scandinavia
At this degree, the transition is made from Scottish Freemasonry, devoted to the Old and New Testaments of the Bible, to Egyptian Freemasonry, which covers most of the major religious traditions of humanity. On the table is depicted the Yggdrassil, or World Tree. On it we see the sign of the Knight of Scandinavia, surrounded by a runic alphabet, that of the Futhark. The three triangles at the top of the card represent the 3 levels of the Universe, Asgard (world of the Gods), Midgard (world of people), and Hellgard (world of Qlippothic entities). The roots of the Yggdrassil gird the World Serpent, which we find in all religions.
Value of the card – A sharp transition to a fundamentally new level. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of Aquarius. On the card, a young man pours water from two vessels. Altruism, i dealism, innovation, spontaneity, creativity.
35th degree – Knight of the Temple (Knight of Sirius)
This is one of the most important degrees in Egyptian Freemasonry. The initiate learns the rules of the separation of the seasons, the connection between the phenomena of the earth and the stars, of Sirius, of the apparent motion of the stars, their speed, distance, conditions, and of gravity. They also study the properties of metals and plants. The “Temple”, in this context, means “the Temple of the Universe”. On the table you see Isis, she is the personification of Sirius, and the Masons are the children of the Widow. That is, they are the spiritual children of Sirius. Also depicted is Osiris, sailing in the boat in the sky, as well as the personification of Sothis, the cycle of Sirius. Value of the card – A relationship with someone who is above you in the hierarch y, earthly or heavenly. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of Leo. It is depicted as a lion standing on his hind legs. Pride, strength, power, eccentricity, the atmosphere of success.
36th degree – Sublime Negociant
Work in this degree is devoted to geometry and astronomy; the balancing of the four elements, and the unity of God. The neophyte is beginning to learn about the deep inner connection between the world’s religions. You will learn about the connection between the Patriarch Abraham and Brahma, between the mother of Sarah and Saraswati. On the table, you can see an image of the Lotus, upon which is written the Unpronounceable Name of God, the Tetragrammaton. Value of the card – Strong friendship and cooperation.
In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of Taurus. The card depicts Taurus, the Bull, standing on his hind legs (pra ying?). Stubbornness, arrogance, and sometimes stupidity. At the same time, fait h, reaching the point of fanaticism.
37th degree – Knight of Shota (Sage Of Truth)
This degree reminds us of the rites of Scottish and Symbolic Masonry. In the triangle, we see the letter “M”, which is the first letter of the password in the degree of Master. Here we recall
the ancient rituals that existed in operational Freemasonry. This degree is intended to test how well the initiate remembers the stages he has passed on the stairs. Value of the card – You have to appreciate the lessons of the past. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of Gemini. Usually, the constellation of Gemini is depicted in the form of two twin men, Castor and Pollux. Talent, intelligence, sense of humor.
38th degree – Sublime Elect of Truth (the Red Eagle)
This degree reminds us about the mysteries of Ancient Egypt. In the center of the Lodge is a burning brazier with a pure flame, and to the Neophyte is explained the similarities between the ancient mysteries of the great Nations, such as the Greeks, the Egyptians, Incas, etc. All of this is only an expression of the eternal struggle between Light and Darkness. The red eagle on the card represents the first stages of the Rubedo, or the Work in the Red, the final s tage of the creation of the Philosopher’s Stone. Below the red eagle is the Sign of the degree, is a golden key (the key to the mysteries), and a cubic line, w hich served as the tool of the ancient Egyptians for volume measurements, crossed.
Value of the card – You have entered the path, in the continuation of which, you will discover many secrets. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of the Star. On the card is depicted a king-magus on horseback, riding under the Star of Bethlehem, with a Cup, a gift to the newborn infant, in his right hand. The blessing of good news.
39th degree – Grand Elect of the Aeons
In the Phoenician language, during the Greek era, the word “Aeon” meant the Central point for development. The work of this degree teaches the Mason about Avatars , the gods, saviors, or Messiahs. Tests of the labor of this degree are taken from the Zoroastrian, which contains 72 Chapters. The chapters correspond to the 72 hidden righteous ones, or Zaddikim, on which rest the world, as well as the Secret Name of God, the Shem ha-Mephorash, which consists of 72 three-letter names or parts. In this degree, the initiate is shown the secrets of Zoroastrian Magicians, including magnetism, prophecies and predictions. The Sign of the degree is a star, in the center of which is a point, and we can see this at the bottom of the card, below the Magician standing between the two pillars. Value of the card – Getting rid of illusions. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of the Moon. It is shown as an astrologer, with the compass in his hands, measuring the angular sizes of the moon. This is one of the “Masonic” cards in the Mi nchiate Tarot. Cycles, mystique, fruitfulness.
40th degree – Sage Savaiste (Perfect Sage)
In this degree, the fundamental laws of nature and i nstinct are considered. The alpha and omega, the beginning and the end, of the mysteries of nature. The seven stars in the triangle in the center of the card represent the seven free Sciences. And all, from alpha to omega, are connected by a chain, which is depicted above, at the top of the ca rd. Value of the card – You will gain the wings to fly in search of Truth.
In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of the Sun. The card depicts two people, a man and a woman, under the Sun. Wisdom, energy, beauty, and many blessings.
41st degree – Knight of the Arch of Seven Colours
The symbolism of the rainbow was believed to have served as a sample of the first arch in the world to the ancient Masons. The rainbow is the sign of the Covenant between God and Noah. God promised him that the flood would never occur. Together with the rainbow, it is not too
favorable a symbol, as it says that due to the sins of mankind, there was supposed to be a flood, and only because of the Covenant did it not come to pass. The seven stars of the Big Bear, Ursa Major, circulating around the Axis of the World, Polaris , relate to the seven colors of the rainbow, which are formed from the single color of white, or Light. Value of the card – You will be shown the existence of a Higher Power. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of the World. Depicted on the card is the triumph of Eros, with an arrow in one hand and a crown in the other, over the globe. Universality, perfection, and satisfaction.
42nd degree – Prince Of Light
In this degree, it is explained that the Masonic order is one of the most ancient social networks. This term is very ancient, and is mentioned in the description of the ritual at least since the 19th century. Despite the savage and bar baric war, the order was constantly trying to change for the better the whole face of the world. It is a grandiose work, comparable only with the construction of the pyramids. The arrangement of the pyramids is reminiscent of Orion’s belt, and the polar star indicates a shift in aeons. Value of the card – You have to destroy your own selfishness in order to bri ng the world to Light.
In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Major Arcana of Fame. On the card is depicted an angel, flying over the town, and blowing in two pipes. This card indicates success and triumph, but also how severely one may be recompensed for selfishness.
43rd degree – Sublime Hermetic Sage (Hermetic Philosopher)
On this table, we find two symbolic columns, depicting birth and death. The temple (cross) is on the seven steps of a ladder. That with four steps represents the square and the four
elements, and that with three steps represents r epresents the triangle, religion, philosophy, and science. The staircase leading to the Temple, of gold color, reminds us of the Helios (the Sun). Value of the card – card – The The hopes for changes for the better. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card of this degree corresponds to the Ace of Swords, the sword that is surmounted by a crown. Power, glory and success.
44th degree – Prince Of The Zodiac
In this degree, the Neophyte is given the opportunity to get acquainted with the Book of the Universe. He will know the secrets of the stars and of the planets, and also als o the relationship of the labors of Hercules (or Melkart, the Phoenician equivilent) with the signs of the Zodiac. The card shows the order of the indulgence of the Divine Light from the Lord, who is depicted by the letters Yod-Hey, the first two letters of the Tetragrammaton, through Mercury (Hermes, Thoth), and down to his earthly successor (J.H.), through the stars and planets. This is the concept of the system of spheres. Value of the card – card – Loss Loss in transit. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Two of Swords. This card depicts two crossed swords, under which is a deer. Harmony, balance, peace.
45th degree – Sublime Sage of the Mysteries
This degree is talking about the second life of man, coming after the ritual of purification, when a man is sinless, like a child, or at least when his past sins have been overcome and now mean nothing. The field of the tracing board is divided into three colors, white, green and blue, symbolizing the gates leading to the purification, purification, and is reminiscent of the past in the Sanctuary of initiation. The Sign of the degree, the triangle, the pyramid, is the dark part of the Flaming Delta, on which is located the Eye of Horus. All of this together should symbolize the Flaming Delta, and the shadow of the triangle. This is the life of man.
Value of the card – A spiritual cleansing of the human being through the understanding of the essence of the Flaming Delta, and of rising to t he qualities of the Kerubim. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Three of Swords. The dog, guarding the swords, waiting for the opportune moment.
46th degree – Sublime Pastor of the Huts
This degree is formed on the basis of morality. The two columns symbolize life and death, and the green lion, the early alchemical process of the Great Work. The Fig tree represents the seeker of Truth. The Sign of the degree is the white circle and the seven tents. In the tents lived the ancient Jews after coming out of Egypt. Also, the tent is a symbol of confidence in the Divine Mercy. Value of the card – The beginning of a new stage of a Great Work, which will certainly be successful. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card of this degree corresponds to the Four of Swords. The card depicts crossed swords, on top of which is a monkey with a mir ror, and at the bottom lies a unicorn. This card is also consistent with rest, relaxation, and the stage of the Nigredo in the alchemical process.
47th degree – Knight of the Seven Stars
This degree is about the most ancient of all the characters, the seven stars of the Big Bear. They make their annual turnover around the Mystical Sun. We also remember about the Pleiades and their origins, as well as the menorah, the seven-branched candlestick of the Temple of Jerusalem. At the bottom of the card, you see the Sign of the degree, a heptagon, each of the corners of which is crowned with a star. Value of the card – an unexpected success in life.
In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Five of Swords. Hidden danger, unpleasant surprises, which can still be avoided due to the fact that you know of them in advance.
48th degree – Sublime Guardian of the Sacred Mount
In this degree, the initiate continues to study the mysteries of nature, and we see the spiritually purified human, or sage, who is exploring the mystical book in the Chamber of Hewn Stones, wherein is the seat of the Sanhedrin (Sinedrione). The wisdom of the sage is like the Ayna
Pkicha, the all-seeing, constantly open, eye. The Sign degree of the degree, seen at the bottom of the card, is a triangle that contains three twisted circles (Triquetta), symbolizing the material, astral, and mystical, Planes of existence). Value of the card – You have to learn something new and very important. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Six of Swords. You will be offered a new voyage or adventure.
49th degree – Sublime Sage of the Pyramids
This is one of the key degrees in Egyptian Freemasonry, reminiscent of initiation, which Cagliostro, and then, as some say, Napoleon, received in the pyramids. So on top of the card we see the allegorical image of the Golden Branch, symbolizing the force of bestowal. Below is a sign of the degree, a Square in the form of a triangle, apex down, and the brass se rpent made by Moses. As is known, the brass serpent, erected on the pole, was supposed to heal people who were bitten by poisonous snakes. In fact, it was the Most High, and not the Brazen Serpent, who cured the people. To Him they raised their e yes, as they looked upon the serpent of brass, erected on the high pole.
Value of the card – A complex situation, danger, which you will avoid by the aid of Providence. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Seven of Swords. Lucky development of the situation.
50th degree – Sublime Philosopher of Samothrace
The Mysteries of Samothrace were invented by the Phoenician people. According to their legends, one of the seven major gods was attacked by two of the others. He was killed and buried between the columns. This story refers us to the legend about the Master Hiram. In the course of the mysteries, the candidate was purified by water and by blood. This is symbolized by the fountain and heart of fire, shown between the two white columns on the card. The Sign of the degree, at the bottom of the card, is well known to the Egyptian Masons. It is composed of a square and 4 compasses, each of which is revealed by 90 degrees. Value of the card – Purification through tests and trials. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Eight of Swords. Commentators associate the card with useless lessons.
51st degree – Sublime Titan of the Caucasus
In this degree is discussed the legend of Prometheus, who stole fire from heaven, in order to help humanity, and for his crime, has been imprisoned in the Caucasus. This le gend is shown in the card in allegorical form. The allegory considers the futile efforts of i gnorance, bigotry and superstition, which fall under the blows of Justice. The Neophyte must to go through seven gates of Truth. Value of the card – Reward, as for good deeds, and for the wicked. Karma.
In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Nine of Swords. The anxiety, the darkness that comes before the dawn.
52nd degree – Sage of the Labyrinth
This degree is very important for each Hermetic Mason. He will travel through the labyrinth of characters, the Mystic Rose in the valley of Cab (prayer), the plant, in which he sees three black roots, five green leaves, and white flowers, and the palm of the valley of Oddy, and will also visit the tower, where Ugolino died from hunger.
Value of the card – The need to be careful in your actions. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Ten of Swords. The troubles.
53rd degree – Knight or Sage of the Phoenix
In ancient times, during the Works in this degree, i n the center of the Lodge was a brazier full of burning coals of fire. Nearby, a Master hung the picture of the Phoenix, surrounded by the
Ouroboros, the snake who swallows his own tail, symbol of eternity and of cycles. Fire is the principle of all things, and the snake symbolizes the eternal renewal of nature. In this case, the Phoenix represents Sirius, in the cycle (Sothis) of t he year 1461. Value of the card – Renewal of life. There can als o be a negative value, you are in a vicious cycle. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card of this degree corresponds to the Page of Swords, the young man with a shield. He is seeking a rebellious nature, which can uncover the secrets.
54th degree – Sublime Scalde
This degree is a logical continuation of the 34 th degree, the Knight of Scandinavia. Bards, or Scalds, that is, Scandinavian singers, possessed the secret of versification and the secrets of the runes. To this extent the initiate finds out how the ancient Scandinavians understood the Pythagorean “Music of Spheres”, and also continues the examination of the runic alphabet, the Futhark. The bards of Balder, the deity of the Northern Sun, remind us of the ice harp, seen at the top of the card. And concerning the secrets of the runes, we see the triangle, upon which is an open book, written in runic alphabet. Value of the card – The search for the Truth.
In the Minchiate Tarot, the card of this degree corresponds to the Knight of Swords, depicted in the form of a centaur. A courageous, wise man.
55th degree – Sublime Orphic Doctor
This degree is connected with the previous one, and is based on Greek Theurgy, the study of the beginning of the mysteries of Eleusis, dedicated to Ceres and Proserpine (Persephone), and also the concept of the Orphic cult At the top of the card is depicted a Greek Lire, or Lira, which was an indispensable companion to the singer, Orpheus. The Sign of the degree, shown
at the bottom of the card, is the key to the Mysteries of Nature, crossed with the magic (Theurgic) wand. Value of the card – A taste for the beautiful, uplifting the spirit. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Queen of Swords. Pride, firmness of spirit, enthusiasm.
56th degree – Pontiff, or Sage of Cadmia
This degree symbolizes the elevation to the purpose of the Great Work. It is a restoration of man to the Divine primordial. For this purpose, in this degree, the seven musical tones, seven colors, seven vowels, the seven heads of the Snake, each of which is devoted to one of the vowels, are studied. Cadmus, who was Phoenician by origin, is a prime figure of the degree. His name means “predecessor”, and has strong ties with Adam Kadmon. Mythology says that he killed the dragon, and sowed his teeth. The same story is t old about Jason, in the legend of the Golden Fleece. From the teeth have grown warriors, who started a fight amongst themselves. In the living there were only five, which helped Cadmus to esta blish the first Greek city approximately 1500 year before new era. On the table, we see the symbolism of the rainbow and a seven-headed snake, but also a si gn of the degree, a triangle and a heart of fire. Value of the card – A new beginning of a great cause. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the King of Swords. Passions, vital life force.
57th degree – Sublime Magus
This degree deals with the Knowledge of the True Secret. The presence of God is in everything, from the cedar of Lebanon, the tallest plants known to the ancients, and even in the hyssop, a very short plant. To this extent, the initiated one gets the key to all allegory, to the secrets of herbs and minerals. Value of the card – Preference from the High Forces, both on the spiritual and the material plane. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Ace of Staves. The crown on his staff is calling for renewal, regeneration, the beginning of a new life.
58th degree – Sage, or Prince Brahmine
In this degree, the concepts of the Days Da ys and Nights of Brahma, the breath of Brahma, and of the Lunar and Solar Race, are explained to the initiate . The Sign of SWAUM, the breath of Brahma, that turns air into all of physical creation, is discussed. Value of the card – card – Awakening, Awakening, awareness, and receiving a variety of opportunities.
In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Two of Staves. Hovering over crossed staves is the figure of a Nude man, who holds in his hands a palm branch, a symbol of victory. At the bottom, the Fox and the Crane are near the high pot. Two staves represents the necessity of cooperation, even among adversaries, to a chieve the goal.
59th degree – Sublime Sage, or Grand Pontiff of Ogygia
The journey for the Golden Fleece begins with the realization that Pandora’s Box had been opened. The opening of Pandora’s Box, which we can see in the top portion of the card, is an
allegory of man’s fall. Ogygia is an island, where Odysseus lived with the nymph, Calypso. Accordingly, the initiate is identified with Odysseus, performing the journey on the fairwa y of life. Also, this was called one of the gates of Thebes. The Sign of the degree, depicted at the bottom of the card, is a square, on which is located the pencil, pencil, a symbol of creative work, and above it, the star. Value of the card – card – Complex Complex tests that are required before the final Transmutation and transformation in the Golden Fleece. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Three of Staves. Success in practical matters.
60th degree – Sublime Guardian of the Three Fires
At the bottom of the card, three of the altars, on which are burning lights, represent the human body, his soul, and spirit. These three parts are mingled on a Golden altar of the Temple of Jerusalem, where the person lit the incense before the Lord. The higher flame of six Midoth (properties, Zeir Anpin – the small face of the Lord) is converted in the Body, Soul and Spirit. All this is clearly expressed in the card. Value of the card – The degree of connection, picking up the strength.
In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Four of Staves. Harmonic balance of forces, and good news.
61st degree – Sublime Unknown Philosopher
This degree is connected with the teachings of Mart inism. Its continuation, the 98th and 99th degrees, are known to very few, as only a few people in t he history of Egyptian Freemasonry have attained them. The neophyte is learning the mysteries of the so-called occult medicine, conformity between plants and parts of the human body. On the table we see the sign of Leo,
because that is the astrological sign that manages and corresponds to the human intestines. The Sign of the degree, a triangle, as well as a branch, on each side of which we find 6 leaves , reminds us of the hexagram, or the Star of David. The initiate will learn about the connection of the human elements and celestial bodies. Value of the card – The healing of physical and mental ailments. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Five of Staves. Difficult struggle for victory.
62nd degree – Sublime Sage of Eleusis
This degree is based on the Eleusian Mysteries, and tells us about the occult force behind all of the manifestations of the material world. The cave of the seven arches at the top of the card reminds us of Poimander. The sage, surrounded by the Ouroboros, represents eternity and the cyclical nature of the world. “And it will pass”, as King Solomon has said. The sign of the degree, seen at the bottom of the card, is the Sun, which contains three Hebrew Yods, the first letter of the Tetragrammaton, the last letter of the name of Adonai, and another, from the words known only to the Egyptian Masons. Value of the card – You will have to discover secret things, secrets will be revealed.
In the Minchiate Tarot, the card of this degree corresponds to Six of Staves. A great victory and glorious success.
63rd degree – Sublime Kawi
The word Kawi means bard, or scald, the poet. Therefore, on the table, we see Krishna with a pipe, a predecessor of Gautama Buddha. He teaches that the Universal Soul, the breath of the Divine, is Love and Mercy. The three-headed eagle on the top of the ca rd symbolizes Freedom, Equality, and Brotherhood, as well as Life, Health, and Strength, the
attributes of the Pharaoh. The Sign of the degree is a triangle, symbolizing the 3 Virtues of freedom, equality, and brotherhood, inside of which a point, God as the source of all human virtues. Value of the card – A spiritual awakening, a sense of universal harmony. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card of this degree corresponds to the Seven of Staves. A good prize after a hard struggle for it. The crown of Works above all rewards.
64th degree – Sage of Mythras
This degree reminds us of the initiations that took place in the Caves of Mythra. At the top of the table we see the Vault, as well as the Sun and the Moon, reminding us of the two columns, Jachin and Boaz. The outer edges of the card are framed by the Masonic cipher, which in the ritual is called the alphabet of Ammanites, made up of geometric shapes, angles, squares, and hypotenuse. Inside we can see the correspondence between the astrological signs of the planets and the alchemical symbols of the seven metals. The seven steps of the stairway and heptagon tell us about the Law of seven, and of the seven-fold structure of initiation into the Sanctuary of the Mitre. The ruins and the Gryphon remind us that the Mysteries of the
Mythraistes, and of modern Egyptian Freemasonry, are the heritage of the wisdom of Ancient Egypt. Value of the card – Determination of the relationship between seemingly unrelated things and events. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card of this degree corresponds to the Eight of Staves. On the one hand, the release of free movement, on the other hand, confusion. This card describes well the dual nature of Mythras.
65th degree – Guard Of Sanctuary – Grand Installator
The following three levels are a series, and are usually given together at one time. In the 65th degree, the Initiate is taught the idea of Ptah as the ancestor of the Masons, and as the god of the very notion of construction. Faith, Hope, and Love, are the basic values that are covered in this degree, as well as in the human mind. The Winged Egg and three circles inside a triangle, at the bottom of the card, is a sign of the degree. Value of the card – Suddenly opened up new opportunities.
In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Nine of Staves. Hidden dangers, secret rage under an outwardly calm surface. The banality of evil!
66th degree – Grand Architect Of The Mystical City – Grand Consecrator
This degree is one of the key degrees in Egyptian Freemasonry. Only the holder of the 66 th degree has the right to found a new Sanctuary. The figure on the table reminds us to reflect about the connection between the pronunciation of the Tetragramaton, and the secret of t he word AUM. Inside the Winged Egg, we see three circles with t hree stars and the Hebrew
letter Yod. It is, to the profane, the first letter of the th e Tetragramaton, but one truly dedicated to Egyptian Freemasonry knows its full value. The essence of this is the Holy Breath. Value of the card – card – Assigned Assigned to an important mission. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Ten of Staves. Train hard, fight easy!
67th degree – Grand Eulogist – Guardian of the Incommunicable Name
This tracing board is painted in red and white, the colors of Ancient Egypt. The degree is devoted to the history of Khem, Kemet, or Cham. As it is wri tten in the prayers of the ancient Jews, “…Miracles and signs in the land of Cham…”. The letter G in the center of a Winged Egg reminds us of the Egyptian origin of Gnosis. Value of card – card – The The Riddle of the Sphinx, standing right in front of you. They urgently need to allow for the passage through this life. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Knight of Staves. Dynamic, constructive person, the restless spirit.
68th degree – Patriarch of Truth
The image of the palm tree on the card represents the valley of KAB, the Mystical Place in the land of Memphis, where grow many palm trees, symbolizing Truth. The three circles inside of the Winged Eggs symbolize the triangle or triad consisting of God, the Mind, and the Future. This degree is transitional, and is a preparation for that of the 69 th degree. The value of the card – You should seriously think about your future. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Queen of Staves. A warm, loving soul, that creates happiness around itself.
69th degree – Knight or Sage of the Golden Branch of Eleusis
This is one of the most important degrees of the Rite, and is symbolic of Initiation. The letter Y, Upsilon, inside of the Winged Egg, on the lower portion of the card, symbolizes the two paths, those of Virtue, and of Vice. These paths, however, come from the same root. It is also representative of a man who raises his hands to the sky. The drawing on the upper portion of the tracing board reminds us of the Golden Branch. This branch is symbolic of Myrtle, and the idea of the wreath speaks about the Eleusinian Mysteries. In Heliopolis, Ivy was use for the same purpose, and in India, it was the Papyrus. For Masons, it is the Acacia.
Value of the card – The need to understand the duality of human consciousness, and its singular nature. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the King of Staves. The King of staves represents a smart, warm-hearted man, of extraordinary character.
70th degree – Prince of Light or Patriarch of the Planispheres
In the degree of the Patriarch of the Planispheres, the initiate receives knowledge about how the planets and stars move, and about their meanings, correspondences, and properties. Therefore, on the top of the table, we see the World Map, a moving map, or globe, of the starry sky. Also on the card, we are shown a Sign of the degree, a square, upon which is the Flaming Star, which, as we know, is symbolic of Sirius. Value of card – Sudden comprehension of the meanings of things. In the Minchiate Tarot, this degree corresponds to the Ace of Cups. Lovingness and unexpected gifts received from friends.
71st degree – Patriarch Of The Sacred Vedas
This degree is mainly focused on, and has a strong association with, Hinduism. On the table, from left to right, we see the symbol of fire, Agni, represented by the flame, the s ymbol of water, Uaruna, represented by the Trident, as well as the symbol of earth, Meruts, represented by the Hammer, upon which is written the name of Thor. Together, their initials form the Sacred word AUM. The Sign of the degree, shown at the bottom of the card, is t he square and compasses, and the Crescent. Value of the card – To show that spiritual Force, represented by the Sacred Word AUM, is only achieved through the unity of all elements.
In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Two of Cups. The first love is the beginning of something new.
72nd degree – Sublime Master of Wisdom
In this degree, the Initiate is taught the secret of the Lesser and Greater Mysteries, the value of the Shield of David, Solomon’s Seal, as well as a triangle, a circle and a square, which are Pythagorean images. The image of the triangle denotes the pyramid, over which the Sun rises. So one can see the
symbolism of the earth, the pyramid, the Sun rising up over it, and of the starts above that, in the symbolic language of Sacred Geometry. Value of the card – you must understand the hierarchy, not only on Earth, but also in Heavens, and your place in it. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Three of Cups, showing three bowls and a lion. A favorable turn of events that must occur using the ideals and actions of the noble person.
73rd degree – Patriarch, or Doctor, of the Sacred Fire
The degree concerns the occult fire, forever burning on the altar of the Holy city of Heliopolis. At the top of the tracing board, we see the horns, or crown, of Isis. Under them, in the center of the card, we see the Heavenly Fire, which is one of the higher components of Nature, a symbol of Divine Magnetism, or spiritual attraction. The fire gave prophetic force to the Hierophants of antiquity. Around the altar on which the fire burns, exists a spiritual darkness, which must be dispersed.
Value of the card – The need to burn old false perceptions and ideas, the world of illusion, on the Sacred Fire, in order to dispel the spiritual darkness. Willingness to receive Enlightenment. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Four of Cups. This card shows four bowls, between which sits a monkey. Frustration, dissatisfaction, secret fears.
74th degree – Sublime Master of the Stoka
In Sanskrit, “stoka”, is a poetic form, composed of two lines by 16 syllables, of which 5, 13, and 15, are short, and the 14th is long. To this extent, this degree covers the occult properties of numbers and of poetic rhythm, and the power they have over the Seven Principles of the Microcosm and the Macrocosm. Music has the power to heal, not only mentally, but also from physical, corporeal, diseases. On the table, we see the Holy sitar of Shiva. In Indian music, the verses are inseparable from the music itself, and the two are not considered in the way they are in the Western concept of musical form and composition. We also see the square, inscribed within the circle, which symbolizes the quadrature of the circle. Quadrature is defined as drawing a square with the same are a as a given plane figure, called “squaring”, or computing that area, in this case, a circle. This is what is meant by the phrase “Squaring the Circle”, a common Masonic phrase and concept identified with this symbol, that is, from a purely geometrical standpoint. This card shows that there is nothing impossible for the person who knows the Law of Vibration. Value of the card – Harmonious balance with the forces of nature. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Five of Cups. Lacking perfection, successful, though imperfect until the Union.
75th degree – Knight Commander Of The Libyan Chain
Pictured at the top of this card, is a Golden chain, of the type given the Egyptian and other Oriental Kings as a sign of offering of Royal favor. Hierophants wore a gold chain on which hung a symbol of the Sun. The Libyan chain consists of triangles, with their bases f acing each other. This alludes to and has the same value or meaning as the Hexagram, or the Star of David. At the bottom of the card, is a Sign of the degree. Upon a square, are adjoined the points of two triangles, the bottom one pointing upwards, and black, and the top one pointing down, and white, symbolizing, in Kabbalah, “The Direct and Return of Light”. This degree completes the VI class of degrees, the Consistory.
Value of the card – Coronation, well-deserved reward, unity, synthesis. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Six of Cups. Descent downwards after reaching the summit.
76th degree – Interpreter of Hieroglyphics, or Patriarch of Isis
Science, Wisdom, Virtue are the subjects that are studied in this degree. The neophyte examines the true mystery of the interpretation of characters, to which Kircher only touched
upon in “Oedipus Egyptian”. On the top of the card, we see Isis, who forever preserves t he ritual purity, and on the bottom of the card, is depicted a Sign of the degree, the Winged Egg, within which is inscribed a segment of a c ylinder, inside which is a square with a point in the center. Value of card – Things may not be what they seem. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Seven of Cups. Fantasies and illusions in communication.
77th degree – Prince of Memphis, or Grand Adminstrator
The most important part of research into the speculations of Theosophical ideas and philosophies, is the study of the religious myths of mankind, and to explore the Truth behind them. To this extent the neophyte studies the ancient view of God, of Nature, and the Eternal Law of Regeneration. At the top of the card, we see a pyramid, above which rises the symbol of the crown of RA, the Sign of the Sun. Two crossed hands, at the center of which is a small circle, remind us of communication, and a uniform Source of all religions. Value of the card – To meet a wise friend.
In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Eight of Cups. Pause, stop to rest. It is necessary to suspend the consciousness in order to process the recei ved information and decide what to do next.
78th degree – Grand Pontiff of the Thebiad
Thebes is the most ancient part of Egypt. Diodorus of Sicily believed that the civilization of the Ethiopian Kingdom developed in Thebes, and later, their rites were transferred to Egypt. Roman history Lucian told, that what the Thebians had invented, was the science of the st ars,
and they had given planets names. That is why on the table for this degree, we see seven Egyptian deities, symbolizing the planets, and the 12 signs of the zodiac. In the area of Thebes, 7000 years ago, The King Menes was born, and would later become the first Pharaoh of Egypt. At the bottom of the card, is a Sign of the degree. It consists of two concentric circles, the prisoners in the square. They remind us about the connection of Upper and Lower Egypt, under the rule of one king. Value of the card – The reference to, and reverence of, ancient traditions, the Union. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Nine of Cups, which symbolizes advancement and progress.
79th degree – Knight, or Sage, of the Redoubtable Sada
The word “sada”, in Sanskrit, means ever, always, constantly. This degree is about the extent of obedience which members of our Order must comply with, delving into the Secrets of Nature and Science. On the table, at the top, we see a Lotus with Sanskrit writing, its value is explained in the course of the ceremony of initiation into t he degree. In the center, we see a Moon, looking downwards, and below that, a square with three points, reminiscent of the three Masonic Lights. Value of the card – Firmness, consistency, persistence in achieving your goals.
In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Ten of Cups, the culmination of the water suit.
80th degree – Sublime Elect of the Sanctuary of Mazias
In this degree, the Initiate sets out to study the myths of the Ancient East, the dogmas of the Vedas, and the mystery of reincarnation, cleansing and restora tive fire. As he is depicted on the card, the sage reminds us of the Vedas. The Sign of the degree, the square with three dots, is at the bottom, reminding us of the three Lights of Freemasonr y, as in the preceding degree.
In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Maid of Cups, shown as a woman with the Cup in her right hand, and the three colors in her left. Serious, honest man, ready to provide necessary assistance.
81st degree – Intendent Regulator, or Patriarch of Memphis
This transitional degree, describes the value of Horus, as a mediator between the gods and men. Next to the figure of the Egyptian High Priest, the human dimension of the Mountain, we see the Falcon, the Divine aspect of the Horus. Also on the table, there is a green circle
with a hexagram inside of it, the Star of David, made of red, blue, and purple, triangles, placed around a grey hexagon, containing a circle with a point in the center. The circle with the point in the center is the alchemical symbol of Sol, the Sun, The Star of David, consisting of two triangles, one tip up, the other pointing down, connects the earthly and the Heavenly. Value of card – Unexpected receipt of very important news. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Knight of Cups. Medieval drawings depicted a young man with the Cup in his right hand, the lower part has a l ion’s body, ending with a fish tail. It is a man-mediator.
82nd degree – Grand Elect of the Temple of Midgard
This degree returns us to the legend that is transmitted in the 34th degree, that of Knight of Scandinavia. It reminds us of the eternal Temple i n Heaven, which serves Brahma, Jesus, Buddha, Odin, Osiris, and Thoth or Hermes. On the table, we see a symbolic figure of Midgard, an earthly scene with a city on a mountain, and the cosmic serpent, the Ouroboros, in his Scandinavian aspect. Three longitudinal and three transverse lines, are reminiscent of the Sign of the degree, and of the three meetings between the Torus and Ermundgade. The meaning of the word “Midgard” is “a fenced s pace”. You have to face some restrictions, but they may limit you to your own good.
In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Queen of Cups, a beautiful, richly dressed woman, with the Cup in her hand, expressing love and sympathy.
83rd degree – Sublime Elect of the Valley of Oddy
This degree is designed to test the memory of the initiate. The palm, growing in the valley of Oddy, had 12 branches and 365 leaves, the numbers of the months in the year, and of the days in the month. In the area of Heliopolis, there grew a sycamore tree, dedicated to Isis. The Celestial Sycamore Tree poured its benefits upon mankind. Once, under the Sycamore Tree,
the first initiations took place. The card depicts a priestess of Isis, collecting the sacred fruit and Signs of the zodiac, reminding us of the Sign of the degree, a circle with 12 points. Value of card – card – Heavy Heavy and laborious work required for initiation. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the King of Cups. A beardless man in heavy clothes, sits on the throne, holding a Cup in his right hand. He is meeting with a pleasant, talented, friendly, man.
84th degree – Patriarch or Doctor of the Yezidis (Izeds)
This degree is designed to train the Initiate in the mysteries of the Persian religion of the Yezids, worshipping the Divine and angelic Peacock. The head of the Yezids, according to the legend of the Charter, is Bachmann, King of Light. The Supreme Divinity of the Yezidis is called Ormuzd, or Ahura Mazda. The seven Supreme gods, the main of which is Ahura Mazda, rule the world of the Yezidis. Below them ar e 20 Yezids, or Patron angels. Below that, there are countless spirits and angels. This is the mystery of the mystical Yezidis. Valueof card – card – Understanding Understanding ones place in the Hierarchy. Hierarch y.
In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Ace of Disks. The figures on the card, Alexander the Great, and Hephaestus, are on the grave of Hercules. Health, wealth, prosperity.
85th degree – Sublime Sage, or Knight of the Kneph
The Egyptian symbol of the Winged Egg, called the Kneph, symbolizes two forms of energy that the world was created with. This is Chesed and Gevurah, Mercy and Severity, the Right and Left Pillars of Jachin and Boaz. These two forces form the law of evolution and
involution, the connection of the Body with the Spirit, and the outflow of the spirit from the Body. Spiritual immortality is the principle of threes and sevens. The Winged Egg is a sign of IAO, a Divine Name of a very profound and powerful Nature. Value of the card – Resident merger. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Two of Disks. Two portraits, united by a common circuit. Complexity in the new situation, the beginning of a new journey.
86th degree – Sublime Philosopher of the Valley of Kab
Isis is often called the Queen of the Roses. The priests of Memphis consecrated rose bushes for Isis. The Rose, in the Masonic Tradition of Egypt, has the s ame meaning as the Acacia. The Rose and acacia are depicted on the tracing board. Remember, however, that, before Roses had that role and association, the Egyptians used a Lotus plant, floating on the mystical waters, and associated with the Winged Egg, for the same purpose and with the same symbolism. It is worth considering that the Lotus breeds under the water. At the bottom of the card, is depicted the Sign of the degree, a small square within a larger one, the smaller one having a Masonic triangle in its center.
Value of the card – Hidden events, the need to keep the secret. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Three of Disks. Perfection, harmony, artistic gifts. The Masonic triangle in th e Sign of the degree can be viewed as three disks.
87th degree – Sublime Prince of Masonry
This series starts the degrees of the Arcana Arcanorum, the “Secreto Secretorum”, contained in the Egyptian Freemasonry of Cagliostro. According to legend, he received them in Naples from the Marquis of San Severo, who received them directly from the keepers of the Traditions of Ancient Egypt. In this degree, it is revealed to the Initiate, the secret of the Libyan chain, the Palm of the Valley of Oddy, the Mystical cross of the Yezidis, the Sublime Rose of the Valley of Kab, as well as the ancient mysteries of Egypt, Greece, and Rome. The letter Y, the Sign of Upsilon, bequeathed to us by Pythagoras, says that good and evil have a common root. “Order from Chaos!” tells us the motto of this degree. The colors of the card represent the stages of the Great Work of the production of the Philosopher’s Stone. The Nigredo (rotting), the Green Lion, and the Red Lion. The very same degree corresponds to the alchemical work in the black (Nigredo). In the centre of the card, is the Sign of the degree, the square and compasses, with a dark oval in the center, topped with a white dot. This white point reminds us of the source of All, and of Menes, the first king of Egypt. Value of the card – An unexpected revival. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Four of Disks. In this card, in addition to the usual four images, there appears the figure of a man on a battle elephant. There is an opinion that in the old versions of the deck, the elephant carried on its back an Egyptian obelisk. The elephant symbolizes wisdom and memory.
88th degree – Grand Elect of the Sacred Curtain
Clement of Alexandria wrote, that in the Temples of Egypt, huge curtains separating the community from the Sanctuary, were hung. This “Veil” stood on the five pillars, symbolizing the five orders of Architecture, and the five senses, and consisted of four colors, the colors symbolizing the 4 elements and the 4 corners of the world. The same curtain was in the Jerusalem Temple, and it separated the Golden Altar, upon which was smoking incense, from the Holy of Holies. The Masonic curtain presupposes a separati on of esoteric knowledge from the exoteric. At the bottom of the card, is the flaming Delta, and the letter G, a Traditional Masonic symbol. The true mystery of the letter G is only known to those dedicated to the Egyptian Rite. The 88 th degree is transitional degree of the Arcana Arcanorum. In the next
two degrees, the initiate receives a complete dedication that you can continue only after the cessation of physical life. The degree corresponds to t he alchemical work in the White, or Albedo. Value of the card – The need to continue the path. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Five of Disks. Complexity, especially in the material and financial aspects.
89th degree – Patriarch of the Mystic City
This is third and final degree of the Arcana Arcanorum. The main elements of the tracing board are the figures of Seth (left) and Thoth (right). Seth acts as a “serpent seducer”, but also as a catalyst for the initiation. If the Serpent did not tempt Adam and Eve, and Seth kill ed Osiris, things would have been completely different throughout human history. Thoth, aka Hermes Trismegistus, is the Keeper of Secret Knowledge. Here we see the law of unity and the struggle of opposites, which would not be possible without Seth. The 12 signs of the Zodiac, are the symbols of the descent to Earth (Ma lkuth), of the Divine Wisdom of the Chain of the Cosmic hierarchy. At the bottom of the card, i s the Sign of the degree, two circles on a square, one above the other, and together they constitute the figure 8. Each of the circles has
in its center, the white point. This degree corresponds to the alchemical work in the Red, the Rubedo. Value of the card – Changeable situation, without evil, there can be no good. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to Six of Disks. Financial success, philanthropy.
90th degree – Sublime Master of the Great Work
This is a key degree of the Egyptian Rite, and therefore it s tracing board is extremely rich in symbolism and information. At the top of the card, we see the Demiurge, the Heavenly Mind, the compass in one hand, and a Hammer of Thor in the other. Under Him, Isis is as the generator of all that exists (Sofia in this context). To the right and to the left of the Demiurge, we see signs of Freemasonry and of Rosicrusianism. The background of the card is dar k brown, reminding us about the “Work in the Brown”, the zero stage of the cycle of creating the Philosopher’s Stone. On the card, we also see an alchemical Cipher, which is passed to the holders of 90th degree. T the bottom of the card is the Sign of the degree, the Winged Egg, with two equilateral triangles with joined peaks. In principle, they have the same value as the Star of David. This degree has completed a serie s of degrees called the Arcana Arcanorum, which laid out the mystery of the Charter. This degree co rresponds to the alchemical work in gold, the Auredo. Value of the card – The descent of the Divine Light into our world through the great Work. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to Seven of Disks. An important and successful step forward.
91st degree – Grand Defender
This is an administrative degree, similar to Warden, or Tyler, of the Grand Lodge. Nine Great Defenders constitute the Great Tribunal of Defenders of the Order. Its Chairman bears the title of “The Great Judge”. On the card, we see Themis, the ancient Greek Titaness, blindfolded. Underneath it is a depiction of Midgard, as a symbol of the Sovereign of the Sanctuary. At the bottom of the card, we see the Sign of the degree, a four-cornered star, capped by a square, with a dot in the center. Value of card – Protection of secrets, and justice.
In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Eight of Disks. Construction of the Foundation for future success.
92nd degree – Grand Catechist
This is an administrative degree, which is usually given to the Custodian of the rituals of the Order. In the Grand Lodge, it corresponds to the position of the Grand Archivist. Seven Grand Catechists constitute the Great Liturgical College. On the table, you can see Astre ya, not to be
confused with Themis. Astreya is considered one of the incarnations of Isis. Below is the Sign of the degree, a four-rayed star with a dot in the center, on a square decorated by waves. Value of card – Getting things right. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Nine of Disks. Success, security, and balance. 93rd degree – Regulator General
This is an administrative degree, usually given to the person in charge of the secretarial work of the National Sanctuary. Nine General Regulators constitute the Grand Consistory. Holders of this degree are subordinate to the Grand Administrator. In the Grand Lodge, this degree corresponds to the position of Grand Secretary. On the tracing board, we see a sage, illuminated by Divine Light. At the bottom of the card, is the Sign of the d egree, a four-rayed star, inscribed in a circle, with a white point in the center, representative of the Light. Value of the card – Dedicated work will lead to sudden enlightenment. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Ten of Disks, showing ten portraits. It is believed that this card brings wealth.
94th degree – Prince of Memphis, or Grand Administrator
This is an administrative degree. The holder of this degree should be strong and wise, like the Sphinx. At the bottom of the tracing board is the symbol of the degree, a four-rayed star, the symbol of the Tetragrammaton, inside of a double circle, with a dot in the center. Value of the card – In order to fulfill your mission, you will have to overcome many obstacles. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Maid of Disks. This androgynous figure, in a gorgeous gown, more masculine than feminine, holds in his right
hand a tray with a painting of an eight-pointed star. There are also versions where the maid is holding a tray in both hands.
95th degree – Grand Conservator
The full title of 95 th degree is Patriarch of the Grand Conservator of the Sovereign Sanctuary. Therefore, at the top of the card, we see a representation of the Patriarch, preparing to make a sign of the degree. Below this is the Sign of the degree, a double circle, in which is inscribed the four-rayed star, with a triangle on top of it. In the center of the triangle, we see the Jewel
of the degree, which is a symbol of the Golden Fleece. According to Gideon, it is reminiscent not only of the Golden fleece, but also of the dew t hat fell on the sheep skins. What is the dew in the views of the Rosicrucian? It is not even necessary to explain. Value of the card – The need to collect and store Knowledge. It will come in handy in the near future. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to one of the most unusual cards, the Knight of Disks. He is shown as a young man, with the hindquarters of a lion. In his hand, he holds a disk with an octagonal star, symbolizing hardness, strength, and balance.
96th degree – National Hierophant, Grand and Puissant Sovereign of the Order
This degree, like the 97 th, is purely administrative. The Hierophant of the National Sanctuary of each sovereign country receives the 96 th degree. The totality of the holders of the 96 th degree is called the Great Council of the Areopagus of the Celestial Empire of Higher Magicians, and this Grand Jury should consist of at least six National Hierophants. The card depicts Isis, as the Matron of Freemasonry. The Sign of the 95th degree, is like that of the 95 th, but surrounded by three circles, since the National Hierophant is entitled to award all of the degrees, from the 1st to the 95 th. The cubic rule and ostrich feather, crossed, in the center of the card, represent Truth and Justice.
Value of the card – The need for the ordering of life’s priorities. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the Queen of Disks. This richly dressed lady holds in her right hand, a disk, depicted upon which, is an eight-pointed star, a symbol of deity.
97th degree – Deputy International Grand Master
The purple color of the background of this card symbolizes higher authority. This degree came into the Rite of Egyptian Freemasonry from the orders of chivalr y. There is a Deputy Grand Master for each of the world’s languages, or linguistic groups. Each Deputy, inside their language group, has the powers of the Grand Master, submitting to him alone. The main element of the card is the Ankh, the Egyptian cross, which symbolizes the merging of male and female, body and soul, and of Isis and Osiris. And as ever ything happens by the Will of Heaven, we see also the Winged Egg, the two together s ymbolizing the merging of the material and spiritual. Value of the card – Consolidation of earthly and Heavenly power. In the Minchiate Tarot, the card for this degree corresponds to the King of Disks. He is portrayed in older versions of the card, as a beardless young man, holding in his right an eight-pointed star, a symbol of deity. On newer versions, the King of Disks i s sometimes shown holding his left hand on the head of a lion, which is sitting at his feet.
98th degree – International Grand Master, Superior Initiator Inconnu of Egyptian Masonry (SIIEM)
This is not an administrative degree, but rather a purely initiatic one, and came into Egyptian Masonry from Martinism. We see on the table, the Martinist Pantacle, a sign of the Higher Unknown. In Kabbalah, the six-pointed star, the main symbol of Martinism, is associat ed with YHVH, the Tetragrammaton. When the Hebrew letter Shin is added to this, we get the Name “Yeshua”, or “Yeheshua”. The 98 th degree of Egyptian Freemasonry is symbolic of that which alchemists called the “Green Lion”, the initial phase of creating the Philosopher’s Stone.
The Supreme Unknown within us is the one whom the Thelemites called the Holy Guardian Angel. Value of the card – Understanding the relationship of what is above and below. The 98th degree corresponds to the letter Shin, one of the three Mother Letters of the Hebrew alphabet from the “Book of Creation”, the Sefer Yetzirah. The lett er Shin is also associated with the Name El, and with Fire. This is a Heavenly Fire, the fire that purifies.
99th degree – Grand Hierophant
On a red background, a reminder of the final stage of t he Works of the preparation of the Philosopher’s Stone, we see the god Ptah, the ancestor of the world, who was particularly revered in the city which the Greeks called Memphis. His real name, in a more accurate Kemetic pronunciation, is At-ka-Ptah. Above the head of Ptah are eight stars, representing eight smaller gods, which were made by Ptah, who was one of the Egyptian Creator gods. Ptah, the patron of the Sciences and of arts and crafts, is the Spiritual Father of Freemasonry. The living embodiment of Ptah was the ApIs Bull. In Greek mythology, it corresponded to Hephaestus, and in the Hebrew, to Tubal-Cain, the first cr aftsman. The Winged egg fully
expounds the doctrine of the origin of the Universe from the original point. The 99 th degree is devoted to knowing the “Red Lion”. Value of the card – The success of your endeavors. Your thought was made manifest in fl esh. The 99th degree corresponds to the letter Mem, one of the three Mother Letters of the Hebrew Alphabet from the “Book of Creation”. The letter Mem is associated with the word Mayim, and with Water. Initial, amniotic fluid, surrounding the Winged Egg.
100th degree – Sovereign Architect Of The World – Grand General Hierophant
On a gold background, we the Benben Stone. The Sovereign Architect of the World is the mystic peak and capstone of the Masonic pyramid. The Benben Stone is also representative of the Pyramidion, or Capstone. Imagine a pole sticking out of the water of the Abyss. On it, sits a grey Phoenix, the harbinger of things to come. He reveals his bill and breaks the silence of the primitive night, the call to life, and the beginning of the defining of what should be and what should not be. The Phoenix is thus an initial incarnation of the Logos, the word, which serves as an intermediary between the Divine Plan and the embodiment of this idea in life… In a sense, when the Phoenix cries out, he set s all the calendar cycles. This is where all of the divisions of time come from, and because of this, his Temple, at Heliopolis, became the center
